The ad depicts people in various predicaments, including a bewildered boy called on by his teacher, a dad trying to change two babies’ diapers at same time, and surgeons about to perform an unfamiliar procedure. Each of these people, at critical moment, pushes a big button with word, “Easy” written on it, to get them through a difficult situation. (Then, of course, you are reminded that doing business with Staples is easy.)

This commercial got me thinking, “What if there were an Easy Button for my inner brat?” Just one zap, and it’s gone.

I wish. Unfortunately there is no sure-fire way to banish inner brat altogether.

But there is one simple, yet powerful tool to stop inner brat dead in its tracks, especially when you’re angry, fuming, pouting, embarrassed or feeling jealous. This tool is following sentence:

“It’s not about me.”

Commit that sentence to memory. It’s going to come in handy: -- when people make sarcastic remarks -- when they don’t return your phone calls -- when they brag about themselves -- when they nag you -- when they don’t thank you for a gift or favor -- when they take advantage of you

Zap. “It’s not about me.”

According to Collins dictionary, success is defined as achievement of something attempted; attainment of fame, fortune and position.

I believe this definition requires expansion … success also means being a responsible human being, caring for our planet, feeling good about ourselves, making others feel appreciated and valued, providing and caring for others, and sustaining genuine lasting relationships.

To have a 40-room mansion, four luxury cars and your own jet plane does not qualify as success if you have no one to share it with or you feel empty inside.

To be a billionaire and die alone because you alienated yourself or disadvantaged others to achieve your wealth is not success.

Many think that possessions and recognition define success and in order to gain these, they must work harder and longer, sacrifice relationships, values and health.

Some believe success is unachievable because they’re not sufficiently educated, don’t have enough time, or are not associated to “right” people.

Success is relative.

If you are a middle-income earner, feel good about yourself, enjoy life and make every day count, you are a success!